PLDT, Smart Reinforce Mental Mealth Well-Being of Passerelles Numériques PH’s Scholars and Faculty

PLDT Inc. and its wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) organized a psychological first aid (PFA) training for over 50 scholars and faculty of Passerelles Numériques Philippines (PNPh). The training session was facilitated by millennial psychologist Riyan Portuguez in-person at Smart’s Regional Office in Cebu.

“At PLDT and Smart, we are committed to using our resources and reach to drive meaningful change. By equipping the youth and educators with crucial PFA skills, we hope to de-stigmatize conversations around mental health while building more empathetic and resilient digital communities in the Philippines,” said Marylou Gocotano, PLDT and Smart Stakeholder Management Visayas Relations Head.

PNPh is a Cebu-based non-profit organization that provides scholarships in IT-related fields to select youth who come from underprivileged backgrounds.

“On behalf of PNPh and our country representative, Luchi Flores, we thank PLDT and Smart for this meaningful partnership that focuses on promoting mental health awareness among our scholars. Through this Psychological First Aid training, our scholars gained a deeper understanding of how they can extend help to their friends, family members, or fellow scholars who are dealing with mental health-related concerns, making our community a safe space for all,” said Alreen Omang, PNPh Partnerships and External Relations Officer.

A fundamental part of the PLDT Group’s advocacy to promote and encourage digital wellness, the PFA training equipped the student-scholars and faculty members with skills to provide initial support to peers experiencing emotional distress. It upskilled participants with practical stress management, referral techniques, and various techniques to provide initial psychological support.

Mark Kevin Chavez, a first-year college scholar taking up Associate in Computer Technology in Software Development at the University of San Jose Recoletos said he is grateful for the chance to participate in the PFA training. “This motivated me to continue taking care of myself and my mental well-being, as well as provide proper support to others with mental health needs, so that we can all be better every day,” he added.

This mental health training for PNPH scholars and faculty is part of PLDT and Smart’s sustained digital wellness campaign, focused on responsible online behavior and emotional resilience. These initiatives help underscore PLDT and Smart’s contribution to the Philippines’ attainment of UN Sustainable Development Goal #3: Good Health and Well-being.

PLDT and Smart Amplify Grand Sinulog 2024

PLDT Inc. and its wireless arm Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) ramped up the splendor at the Philippines’ grandest festival, Sinulog, in support of the local government of Cebu City and Sinulog Foundation, Inc.

Cebuanos and tourists alike celebrated the 459th Fiesta of Señor Santo Niño in full swing, with the city buzzing with parades, concerts, pageantry, and spirited competitions.

 

“We are committed to honoring the rich heritage and passions of the Cebuanos. We believe in fostering a relationship with our loyal subscribers that extends beyond services - valuing their individuality and catering to their interests. Our aim is to be a part of their journey, not just during the festival, but in all aspects of their digital lifestyle,” said Melvin Consunji Nubla, FVP and Head of Go-To-Market and Subscriber Management at Smart.

 

PLDT and Smart fortified their communication and connectivity services in anticipation of Sinulog, enabling attendees to capture and share memorable moments from the festival.

 

Lovey Genoguin-Ascher, an Overseas Filipino Worker on vacation from Germany expressed her delight due to the reliability of Smart’s signal during the festival. “Smart’s signal was really good. We were able to stay connected and meet with my family members at our designated meeting points. We were also able to share photos and videos on social media,” said Ascher.

 

In addition, PLDT and Smart equipped Cebu media entities and the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu with fast and reliable wired and data connectivity, facilitating the smooth livestreaming of the festival’s mardi gras, masses, solemn foot processions.

 

PLDT and Smart also set up booths at designated points around the city, providing immediate assistance to attendees, ensuring connectivity needs were met throughout the festival.

 

In collaboration with local partner establishments such as restaurants and bars, Smart also offered exclusive perks and discounts to loyal customers, part of continuing efforts to give back to subscribers and enhance their festival experience.

 

Overseeing Smart’s participation in Visayan festivities for nearly a decade, Lloyd Genesiran, Junior Manager and Sinulog Festival Lead of Smart Go-to-Market and Subscriber Management shared, “Our goal has always been to make Smart a meaningful part of Cebu City and its constituents. It's truly rewarding to see our hard work pay off and see the value we add to their Sinulog experience.”

 

PLDT and Smart ensured the spirit of the Sinulog Festival was shared with everyone, on-site and online, part of broader initiatives connecting Filipinos, and as aligned with the Group's commitment to the Government's overall digitalization thrust.

PLDT, Smart Enable Young Innovators to Serve more Filipino Communities through Technology

PLDT and its wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) equip more young innovators with skills, serving more Filipino communities through inclusive and sustainable technology.

“PLDT and Smart, through their network and technology, have long extended technical support to help the youth turn their plans into actions, and eventually change the world they live in for the better,” said Stephanie Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Management Team at PLDT and Smart.

The PLDT Group’s Smart Wireless Engineering Education Program (SWEEP), the first and longest-running Philippine industry-academe linkage, and Innovation Generation (InnoGen), an innovation grant program, have served as platforms for the youth to become digital changemakers in their respective communities.

Team SEER from Bataan Peninsula State University, one of the finalists from InnoGen season 2, recently received a financial grant from the US ASEAN Smart Cities Partnership (USASCP) in the Philippines for Kloudtech, an IoT-based weather and coastal flood monitoring system.

“Kloudtech’s goal is to enhance disaster resilience among Filipino communities and support government initiatives, assist business owners, and protect coastal communities and residents in low-lying areas. Kloudtech is here to make cities smarter and more livable,” shared Kloudtech CEO Patrick Gozun.

“We discovered the USASCP grant through our university mentors and their extensive research on available funding opportunities. The application process was driven by our team's proactive efforts, along with guidance from mentors and online resources needed to submit a proposal,” added Patrick.

Kloudtech also showcased its technology in a symposium in Jakarta, Indonesia called "A symposium on Accelerating Science, Technology and Circular Innovation" and the 2023 edition of Prototypes for Humanity in Dubai, exhibiting its innovation alongside prestigious universities from 47 countries around the world like the University of Oxford, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, University of California, Berkeley, Harvard University, and Standford University.

“Securing the grant has opened avenues for Kloudtech to scale up and make a more substantial impact. We anticipate using the funds strategically to enhance our technology, expand our reach, and ultimately contribute to positive change in the areas addressed by our app,” said Dan Martinez, co-founder of Kloudtech.

“The learnings from our InnoGen experience served as a foundational knowledge base. While we did not secure the grand prize, the experience ultimately inspired us to further enhance and refine our product. We are enthusiastic about the journey ahead and remain committed to bringing our innovative idea to fruition,” said Gil Cruz, another Kloudtech co-founder.

Through the years, the PLDT Group has underscored the value of inclusive learning and industry-academe linkages to promote STEM education in the country. This commitment also supports UNSDG #4: Quality Education and is aligned with the vision of the Philippine Government-mandated Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC).

PLDT, Smart Scale 45M Reach for its #BetterToday Mental Health Program

PLDT and Smart forge ahead in leveraging technology to promote sound mental health for all. In 2023, PLDT and Smart recorded a reach of over 45 million for its #BetterToday program, bridging the digital divide, as it creates safe, happy, and inclusive spaces.

“Better Today journeys hand in hand with like-minded advocates from various sectors, including local governments, content creators, and civil society organizations. With over 45 million reach and over 20 community partners, PLDT and Smart believe in the continuous creation of shared value and on a whole-of-community approach to making the digital world safer, and better today,” said Cathy Yang, FVP and Group Head for Corporate Communications.

In 2023, PLDT and Smart strengthened their partnerships with LGUs by conducting health awareness events in Quezon City, Quirino Province, Cebu City, and Cagayan de Oro. Through the Better Today Psychological First Aid Program, PLDT and Smart also mobilized volunteers from different sectors to help address the mental health needs of distressed individuals within communities. Ensuring a safe and inclusive space, the volunteers included the youth, senior citizens, barangay healthcare workers from La Union and the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) community in Porac, Pampanga.

“Promoting mental health has long been a personal advocacy, and I am very grateful to PLDT and Smart for helping us strengthen our mental health program in the province,” said Joy R. Ortega, Sangguniang Panlalawigan of La Union Board Member.

Creating a ‘malasakit’ culture at the workplace, PLDT and Smart have also curated wellness campaigns for their over 14,000 employees. Through their Wellness Revolution Program, PLDT and Smart continuously promote for the holistic well-being of the workforce through weekly fitness classes in the workplace and mental health webinars for employees featuring experts. To promote a #HappySpace culture, exciting events are organized such as org-wide Halloween activities with employees and their families, employee recognition events for top performers and tenured employees, and a week-long year-end Christmas Thanksgiving celebration. The “Mind Your Health” program, launched in 2020, also continues to be a key part of the company’s efforts to enhance the mental and emotional well-being of the workforce. Well-being consultations with doctors and counselors are also provided as a company benefit.

Promoting digital wellness is a key part of PLDT and Smart’s continuing commitment to help the Philippines contribute to UNSDG #3: Good health and well-being.

Para Athletes Advocate for Mental Resilience, Inclusivity, and Sports with PLDT and Smart

To celebrate this year’s World Mental Health Day, PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and its wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) continue their advocacy to champion mental health and wellness through sports with the Better Today: Power Move Project.

In partnership with the MVP Sports Foundation (MVPSF) and Football for Humanity (FFH), PLDT and Smart have organized the third Better Today: Power Move Project. But this year’s campaign has been made more special because the storytellers are athletes with disabilities and personalities from Obstacle Course Racing, football, among many others – who embody the true meaning of persistence, bravery, and mental resilience.

“As Filipinos, our love for sports helps strengthen the belief that anything is possible. It defines what true greatness is all about. These athletes, in their own extraordinary ways, have underscored the important message of how sports do not discriminate. Instead, sports instill a deep sense of community and solidarity,” said Jude Turcuato, PLDT and Smart FVP and Head of Sports, and MVPSF Executive Director.

A fundamental part of the telco’s advocacy on digital wellness, the Better Today: Power Move Project has reached over 15 million social media reach since launching the program in 2021, featuring various athletes backed by PLDT, Smart, and MVPSF and advocacy partners.

“In PLDT and Smart, through sports and mental resilience, it is our goal to help cultivate a culture of empathy and safe spaces. By creating a more inclusive community, we become champions of a better, safer, and more resilient world and a better tomorrow which starts today,” added Turcuato.

The Power Move Project is also a continuing effort to inspire the Filipino youth to become better citizens and help in the fight against discrimination and abuse.

“Through this project, we want to prompt a social change and hopefully, help break down barriers by promoting a culture of solidarity and inclusivity through sports,” said Belle Tiongco, VP and co-founder at Football for Humanity.

Making this year’s Better Today: Power Move Project more inclusive is a step toward PLDT and Smart’s push to empower people with disabilities.

PLDT and Smart have recently partnered with non-profit organization ATRIEV to train people with visual impairments in using the Android Accessibility Suite program so that they can maximize the use of their smartphones for daily living.

“PLDT and Smart have long championed digital inclusion, accessibility and innovation. Together with our partners, we support inclusive programs that break barriers and ensure that no one is left behind,” said Stephanie Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Management at PLDT and Smart.

Beyond sports, PLDT and Smart’s Better Today program has also partnered with local governments, organizations, youth leaders, educational institutions, and social media influencers nationwide to advocate for mental health awareness and train frontliners in psychological first aid. Through this initiative, PLDT and Smart seek to uplift and improve the overall digital wellness of Filipinos, underscoring the commitment of PLDT and Smart to the UN Sustainable Development Goals #3: Good Health and Well-Being.

Catch the Power Move Project on Better Today’s Facebook and Instagram.

PLDT, Smart, University of Baguio Join Hands to Promote Innovation and Engineering Excellence

PLDT and its wireless unit, Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) recently joined the University of Baguio (UB) during its Annual Tripartite Collaboration to further enhance the existing curriculum of programs in the College of Engineering.

“Under our Smart Wireless Engineering Education Program or SWEEP, the country's first and longest-running industry-academe linkage program, we continue to promote and culture of innovation and excelling by extending learning opportunities to students and faculty,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Management Team at PLDT and Smart.

This initiative brought together partners from the academe and the private sector, specifically those in the technology industry, and aimed to align the current engineering program with the latest technological trends, and to strengthen the linkage between the academe and the industry.

“We acknowledge the contribution of the industry reaching out to and partnering with the academe. Under this collaboration, we have extended our expertise in the field of wireless telecommunications and technologies, which aim to add value to what UB currently has,” said Hope Mamucud, Senior Core Network Supervisor at PLDT and Smart.

“We currently offer a Technopreneurship subject in the School of Engineering and Architecture that requires our students to create prototypes and explore innovations. We also have Robotics incorporating Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in our curriculum. With PLDT and Smart extending their technical expertise, we can further improve these subjects under this partnership,” said Engr. Annalyn D. Soria, MACT, UB Faculty.

“I chose to take Electronics Engineering so I could learn more about the current and upcoming trends in technology. I also believe through technology and innovation, I can contribute to addressing the waste management challenges in our community,” said 24-year-old John Reynald Garcia, a UB Electronics Engineering student.

“Trainings extended under SWEEP can help us gain knowledge in technology and enables us to become familiar with advanced innovation and equipment available. This can eventually add value to our academic and professional development,” John added.

Since 2003, PLDT and Smart have being supporting colleges and universities all over the Philippines through SWEEP. The program underscores the PLDT Group's commitment to innovation and digital inclusion, and supports the government's key digitalization efforts, by fostering industry-academe linkage. The PLDT Group is a founding member of the Digital Infrastructure pillar of the presidential Private Sector Advisory Council or PSAC.